Frequently Asked Questions
What is Physical Therapy?
What should I expect during Physical Therapy treatment?
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Perform an evaluation to determine a baseline status for the tissues to be treated including range of motion, strength, balance -
Discuss with you and set appropriate goals that are function based that will guide further treatment sessions. -
At follow up visits, the physical therapist will use various treatment techniques such as modalities, manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education to achieve the functional goals that have been determined at the time of the initial evaluation.
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During those 6-8 visits your therapy team will have instructed you with various tools to gain a greater understanding of your pain. You will be taught strategies and see opportunities to help yourself and become less dependent on healthcare providers.
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There is a lot of research that indicates that people in pain are interested in knowing more about their pain. In studies where patients go through education sessions and gain a deeper understanding of their pain it was found that they have less fear, better attitudes about pain, move easier, have the ability to work more despite slight discomfort, have the ability to exercise more, and have less nerve sensitivity.
Why do I have pain?
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Where do we feel pain? -
What is the purpose of pain? -
What are the types of pain? -
What is the brain’s role in pain? -
What is the nervous system’s role in pain? -
How your treatment can allow you to take back your life from pain?
How do I know if Physical Therapy will help me?
Working with you and your doctor, we can discuss your options and help determine if physical therapy will be the right choice for you. Contact us today to discuss your current condition and even set up a free consultation if you choose.
Can I go to any Physical Therapy I choose?
How do I schedule an appointment?
Our scheduling is easy and we offer convenient locations and appointment times for you. We have flexible appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Call us today!
What should I bring to my first appointment?
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A prescription (if needed) for physical therapy from your referring physician, Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant (PA). -
Insurance information (we will make a copy of your card). -
Print out the patient forms, fill them out, and bring them with you. -
In case of an automobile accident or worker’s compensation claim, also bring any case manager or insurance adjuster contact names, phone numbers, and claim number. -
Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork, so you can maximize your time in your evaluation. -
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your problem areas.
Will it hurt?
Physical therapy is not meant to hurt, but to relieve pain. However, as you restore your mobility, pain levels, at times can fluctuate. You might experience some temporary soreness from using muscles that are weakened or recovering. This is a normal response to therapy treatment. Good communication with your therapist will help minimize any discomfort. We want you on your way to quick pain relief and back to normal activities.
Does insurance cover my treatment?
Yes, in most cases it does. As a courtesy our office staff will be happy to assist in contacting your insurance company and determining your coverage based on your individual policy. For more information, visit our insurance plan page and please do not hesitate to contact our office. We do offer different payment options for your convenience.
What if I don't have insurance?
For patients who do not have insurance, we offer a discounted fee, due at the time of service.
What type of payment do you accept?
What do I wear?
Dress comfortably with clothes that allow easy access for the therapist to examine your problem areas. For treatments, loose fitting clothes that are comfortable for gentle exercises and supportive sneakers are often good choices to wear.
How long will my therapy sessions last?
Typically, the first session lasts for about 45 minutes but with the paperwork up front and scheduling after the appointment count on about 1 hour 15 minutes. Each session after that will be about 45-60 minutes. The amount of time will be based on your specific needs, and your therapist will discuss this with you.
How many sessions will I have?
Each patient’s diagnosis is different, so together with your referring physician, your therapist will develop a Plan of Care that is right for you. Your plan of care and number of visits will be determined during your first visit and explained to you by your physical therapist.
What types of education/training do your therapists have?
Physical therapists have years of university level training in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology (study of joint and body movement), neurology, pathology and many of the other medical sciences. Our physical therapists have graduated from accredited physical therapy programs and are state licensed. Depending on the university, the physical therapy program is either a bachelors, a masters or a doctorate level degree. Rest assured, your therapist is well trained to evaluate and treat your condition.